Nigerian Afrobeat star Davido has sparked social media discussion after unfollowing actress Iyabo Ojo on Instagram, a move linked to leaked messages criticizing his stance on a high-profile campaign for justice following the death of musician Mohbad. The rift emerged after social media commentator VeryDarkMan shared a private WhatsApp conversation in which Ojo accused Davido of insincerity in his advocacy efforts.
In the leaked chat, Ojo condemned Davido for continuing to follow fellow artist Naira Marley on social media while publicly supporting calls to investigate Mohbad’s controversial 2023 death. Marley, formerly signed to Marlians Music—a label linked to Mohbad before his departure—has faced public scrutiny amid the case. Ojo reportedly wrote, “He flew down like he claimed to fight for justice but still follows Naira Marley. That means he was chasing clout. I’m so disappointed.” She also referenced Davido’s self-proclaimed role as the “only superstar artist who stood by Mohbad,” dismissing it as “fake love.”
Davido’s decision to unfollow Ojo on Instagram, confirmed by checks from Nigerian outlet Media Talk Africa, appears to signal a breakdown in their collaboration on the justice campaign. Notably, Ojo continues to follow Davido’s account. The actress had been a leading voice in the “Justice for Mohbad” movement, which gained momentum after the singer’s death under unresolved circumstances. The case prompted nationwide protests, candlelit vigils attended by celebrities including Falz and Zlatan, and demands for accountability from Nigerian authorities.
Mohbad’s passing at 27 fueled widespread speculation about potential foul play and industry misconduct, though official investigations remain ongoing. Ojo, who founded a WhatsApp group to coordinate advocacy efforts, later expressed regret over her early push for Mohbad’s body to be exhumed, calling it an emotionally charged decision.
The Davido-Ojo dispute highlights tensions within the celebrity-driven activism surrounding the case, underscoring how public scrutiny of influencers’ actions can escalate into personal conflicts. While Davido has yet to publicly address the unfollowing, the incident has reignited debates about performative allyship and the complexities of leveraging fame for social causes. Analysts note the episode reflects broader challenges in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, where personal loyalties and public image often intersect with advocacy.
As discussions unfold online, Mohbad’s family and supporters continue to seek clarity on the circumstances of his death, with calls for transparency from law enforcement remaining a focal point. The evolving narrative underscores the enduring impact of the case on Nigeria’s cultural landscape and the role of celebrities in shaping public discourse around justice.
